If you are thinking of starting a non-profit, the first item on your checklist is probably how to get a grant. For start-ups, however, navigating the grant process can be challenging. Here are a few basic concepts you need to understand before you begin applying for grants.
Just what is a grant? The first concept to understand is that a grant is not necessarily free money. While you won’t have to pay it back, you will need to follow whatever rules and stipulations placed upon its spending. A grant is a financial assistance award which must be spent on the support for which it was requested.
Why is it so hard for new non-profit organizations to obtain grants? The economy is tight. Grant makers want to ensure the money they supply will be spent in accordance with the guidelines set by their organization; they also want to insure the program being funded is, or has been, successful in the past. In other words, grant makers are looking for a non-profit’s proven track record.
Is it impossible for new nonprofits to find funding? Not necessarily. If your organization is currently new, start the “grant worthy” process by documenting the organization’s activities. This includes the numbers of people the organization may assist and the outcomes.
While the search for grant funding may seem impossible to a new nonprofit, don’t worry; there are still grants available to help start-ups. Keep in mind, however, grants should not be the nonprofits sole source of funding.
For more information and assistance on grants, check out The Foundation Center. The Foundation Center has offices nationwide, including the Washington, D.C. area.
The Foundation Center
1627 K Street, NW, Third Floor
Washington, DC 20006-1708
202-331-1400
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